One of the oldest wineries in Chile, Viña Santa Rita, has recently garnered acclaim for its premium dry-farmed Carménère wines sourced from some of the oldest vines in the region. An incident in 1994 led agronomist Dr. Jean-Michel Boursiquot to discover that what was thought to be Merlot brought over from Bordeaux was actually Carménère, a grape nearly lost to history after the phylloxera crisis. This pivotal moment shifted Chile’s wine identity, making Carménère its signature grape.

The unique challenge that Carménère faces is that it ripens later than Cabernet Sauvignon, leading some growers to overlook it in favor of more popular varieties. Dr. Boursiquot’s chance visit to Viña Carmen, along with his expertise in French viticulture, not only unveiled the truth behind Carménère’s identity but also set the path for Chile to embrace this varietal fully.

Viña Santa Rita, one of the oldest producers in Chile, now excels in producing premium Carménère wines from old vines located in the "grand cru" area of Apalta, Colchagua. Winemaker Sebastián Labbé, after working at top wineries in New Zealand and Australia, prioritized the purity and freshness of Carménère. His dedication to achieving a balance, alongside the care he takes in the vineyard, has cultivated two esteemed single vineyard wines—"Floresta" and "Pewën de Apalta."

The "Floresta," a vibrant and charming wine, is noted for its raspberry flavors enriched with a backbone of minerality. In contrast, the "Pewën de Apalta" offers a richer profile, showcasing a complex array of flavors, including blackberry liqueur and black truffle, with a smooth and luxurious finish.

Thus, Carménère has transformed into more than just a misidentified grape; it now represents the essence of Chilean viticulture, thriving in the heat of its new home and offering wines that reflect its unique terroir. As a testament to its growing reputation, these wines are not only seen as local treasures but are gaining international recognition, solidifying Carménère’s status as an emblematic Chilean varietal.